Kids Movement Activities
With video games, the Internet and endless cable channels to float through, parents sometimes find it difficult to get their kids moving. However, encouraging your kids to ignore technological forms of entertainment and replace them, at least partly, with physical activities benefits them in the long run. Parents who partake in these activities with their kids can also benefit.
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Elementary Classrooms
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Elementary school teachers who are looking to add a little physical exercise into their students' day have a variety of options. For example, getting the students to march in place while they recite the alphabet can educate their minds and get their blood flowing. You can also have students mimic animals, such as horses and bunnies, through physical movement. However, conditions should be considered before initiating any physical game in a classroom. For example, the teacher should make sure there is enough room for the activity to take place. Teachers should also make sure the activity involves all the children and is age-appropriate.
Tag
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The game Tag is pretty straightforward; one kid is labeled "it," and the other kids must run around and avoid being touched by him. Once a kid is tagged, she becomes "it." However, there are many variations to this classic game, all of which get kids running and moving. One such variation is reverse tag. In this game, the person who is "it" must avoid being touched by all of the other players. Freeze tag is also similar to traditional tag expect that when someone is tagged he must freeze and remain in place. Players can become unfrozen if they are tagged by another person. Once the person who is "it" freezes all the players, the game is over.
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The Bean
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Using a small beanbag can get both smaller children and toddlers moving around the house, backyard or play area. Simply place a beanbag on a toddler's back and have her crawl around until the beanbag falls off or until she crosses a finish line. This game can be played with multiple toddlers. Younger kids can also partake in this game. If the players do not wish to crawl, the beanbag can be placed on their heads. This version encourages movement and teaches balance.
Benefits
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Children who partake in physical activities benefit in a variety of ways. Games and activities that include numerous kids teach them cooperation. Learning the games helps with their general learning skills. Most important, physical activities increase the overall health of the child and combat childhood obesity. Children who are obese run the risk of being obese as adults. Obesity leads to numerous diseases, including diabetes, elevated blood cholesterol and hypertension. According to PBS, physically active children increase their capacity for learning while reducing depression and anxiety.
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